Have a liking for 17 -19 century architectural style? Or do you prefer the new-age glass-building styles? London fuses both traditional and new-age modern architecture styles in one vibrant and fast-paced cosmopolitan city. London is the capital of England and the United Kingdom and the population in the region stands at around seven million with twelve thousand in London City itself the ancient core of London. Londonis divided by boroughs, much like New York City – with Central London as the main core, Inner Boroughs with notable districts such as Greenwich in the South and Outer Boroughs with Heathrow Airport found in the West side. It does not matter if you are interested in history, the arts, sightseeing or just want to do some hard-core shopping. London has a place for any travelers of any age.
Historical attractions”
Palace of Westminster and Buckingham Palace (Central London)
Not to be confused between the two, the Palace of Westminster is the seat of Parliament in the United Kingdom where political leaders meet to discuss policies and enact bills. Buckingham Palace, on the other hand, is the official residence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Be sure to check out the world famous Big Ben (tower clock) at the Palace of Westminster and if you’re in luck, you could even be in the Strangers’ Room to observe a parliament meeting in session! Changing of Guards ceremony might at Buckingham Palace might ring a bell to fans of Mr. Bean and is something that should not be missed! Both attractions are definitely a must-go for the history buff.
British Museum and other museums (Bloomsbury and Mayfair-Marylebone, Central London)
Definitely on the to-visit list for the history buff, Bloomsbury in Central London offers a number of museums catered to the different tastes and interests of history enthusiasts. For travelers who are interested in fine arts, Foundling Museum might be a good museum to visit. Archeology fans will be fascinated by the wide range of ancient Greek, Egyptian and Middle Eastern artifacts displayed in museums such as the British Museum. In fact, London is a city filled with MANY museums it is also possible to find museums of other interests in other districts and boroughs!
Shop till you drop
Covent Garden (Central London), Mayfair-Marylebone (Central London), South Kensington- Chelsea (Central London)
Shopping enthusiasts fear not! You have found yourself right at home! London offers an extensive shopping experience with most of the major retailers and shopping malls concentrated in Central London. Of course, one will be able to find small shops littered everywhere in the Inner and Outer boroughs. For the affluent and those who are ever ready to keep up with fashion, be sure to check out the shops along King’s Road at South Kensington-Chelsea. High-end brands such as Burberry to other family-owned businesses can be found in these areas.
The arts and cinema
Covent Garden, Notting hill-North Kensington, Leicester Square, South Banks (Central Lodon), East End, Hammersmith-Fulham (Inner Boroughs)
Travelers who are interested in the arts will want to visit these areas in Central London. The true cosmopolitan nature of London can be experienced at Leicester Square where one can find Chinatown and all things related to the Asian culture and Little India in the East End of London, to quote just a few. The South Banks features more museums and the National Theater which periodically hosts major productions and a plethora of smaller and amateur productions. However, the core area where theater and opera fans congregate is at Covent Garden in Central London which features thirteen theaters which include the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane and New London Theatre and two opera houses such as the Royal Opera House. The world famous and pioneering British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) Headquarters can be found in the inner boroughs at Hammersmith-Fulham. Treasure hunters who love to check out antiques and travelers who prefer a more laid-back atmosphere might want to check out Greenwich in South London (Inner Borough) where the flea market and small shops are locatedDid I mention that any traveler can find a place in London to call home?
Soho (Central London), Wimbledon (Outer Boroughs)
For the traveler who does not have any niche interests or prefer to walk around and immerse themselves in the fast-paced city lifestyle, the Soho is the right place for just about anyone who is not particularly interested in the arts, history or shopping. At Soho, one will be able to find chains of restaurants that cater to all tastes and boutique shops selling clothes that exude personality and individuality. Definitely a must for teenagers and youths! Bars litter the streets of Soho including three gay bars such as Candy’s Bar in Soho and at Rupert’s Street. Soho is not meant to serve the needs of any particular group of travelers and is best discovered by wandering around till you find something that fascinates or interests you! The tennis fan will not want to miss visiting Wimbledon where all things related to tennis rule.